Oklahoma City will host the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials for Flatwater Sprint this spring. The dates are set for April 20-21 and will take place on the Oklahoma River. More importantly than the event itself, kids interested in kayaking will have the opportunity to get firsthand and first-rate advice from some of the sport’s top professionals.

Kids between the ages of 8 and 16 will be able to have a paddle-round with some of the U.S. athletes on the Oklahoma River. We are constantly reminded of the importance of taking America’s next generation into the out-of-doors for various activities; the water sports are no different. Raising awareness for getting kids outside is imperative as these athletes take time out of their busy schedules on the road to London.

The event’s intention is to be informative while also having fun in a relaxed atmosphere. It will also give some of the athletes, who have been training diligently for their trials, to unwind and have a little fun themselves. The Paddle Now! youth event, which is free and open to the public, will be held on Saturday.